Stacey Allen Ruff

Stacey Allen Ruff, 65, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 5, 2025, surrounded by family. Stacey was born in Zanesville, Ohio, growing up in Columbus, Ohio, where he met his wife while attending The Ohio State University. Following both of their graduation from OSU in 1982, Stacey served as an officer in the United States Marine Corps for 23 years serving in numerous military exercises and conflicts worldwide as a naval aviator.

Stacey retired from the Marine Corps as a Lieutenant Colonel finishing his service as Executive Officer of Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12) in Okinawa, Japan. He also served as Commanding Officer of the KC-130 Squadron VMGR-152 “Sumos” at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma in Okinawa, Japan. Following his retirement, Stacey became a flight instructor at Flight Safety International. Over his career, Stacey flew nine different aircrafts, which is a testament to his perseverance and commitment to excellence.

Stacey was a loving husband, dedicated father, and the best “Poppy Stace” to his five adoring grandchildren. He will be dearly missed.

Stacey is survived by his wife of 42 years, Marian Lynch Ruff, his four children Caitlan (Michael) Flis, Fallon (David) Beveridge, Sean (Martha) Ruff, and Maura “Mo” Ruff, as well as five grandchildren Eleanora, Oliver, & Theodore Flis and Fallon & Eara Beveridge. He is also survived by his siblings – Karen Reindel, Becky Ruppersburg, Mark Ruff, Erin Barecca, and Grant Ruff as well as many nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held at Schoedinger Dublin (5980 Perimeter Dr. Dublin, OH 43017) on Tuesday, May 13, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. A funeral mass will be held in his memory at Saint Brendan Catholic Church (4475 Dublin Rd. Hilliard, OH 43026) on Wednesday, May 14, at 10:30 a.m. A military burial service will be held on Wednesday, May 21, at 11:00 a.m. (arrival by 10:45 a.m.) at Dayton National Cemetery (4400 W. Third St. Dayton, OH 45428). All are welcome to attend.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The Headstrong Project (https://theheadstrongproject.org/donate/) in memory of Stacey—as mental health and supporting his fellow veterans were causes he felt deeply passionate about. Donations can be made “in memory of” Stacey Ruff (associated email address is [email protected]).

Semper Fi.